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Big Rice Lake

3 ReviewsAdd Review

Anglers and paddlers will find Big Rice Lake campground positioned along a maintained gravel road in Superior National Forest, with three drive-in sites arranged in a loop near the lake. The Forest Service facility accommodates RVs up to 20 feet, though the final approach transitions to a two-track that may challenge low-clearance vehicles.

The middle campsite provides the most grassy area for tents and relaxation, while all sites include picnic tables and fire rings. Campers report moderate mosquito activity and turtle nesting along the access road during evening hours. For those wanting additional Forest Service options, Pfeiffer Lake sits three miles north with similar lakeside access.

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Location

Public Campground

Big Rice Lake is located in Minnesota

Detail location of campground

Directions

Big Rice Lake is located 14 miles north of Virginia, MN. * From Virginia, take Highway 53 north for 8 miles to County Road 131. * Turn right on County Road 131 for 1 mile. * Turn left on County Road 68 for 0.3 mile. * Go straight on Pelton Road County 405 (County 405 becomes UT8116) for 2 miles. * Turn right on F.R. 256. This is a one-lane gravel road. Continue on for 6 miles. * Turn right on F.R. 247. One mile to Big Rice Lake.

Coordinates

47.70500087 N
92.49900067 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned the beautiful forested sites and secluded setting perfect for getting away. Many noted easy road access suitable for various vehicles including RVs up to 20 feet.

RThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2025

Great spot to unwind

We rolled in at night and spent the first night in our camper by the boat landing. The next day we scoped out the sites and picked the perfect one. Very easy to pull our 20’ nobo through the loop (yes…the road access loops around and puts you out by the boat landing… so, no worries about getting in and out) and backing into the site was a breeze

Sitesites do not have numbers
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Big Rice Lake by Randall I., September 28, 2025
  • Review photo of Big Rice Lake by Randall I., September 28, 2025
  • Review photo of Big Rice Lake by Randall I., September 28, 2025
Bare Soul W.
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2025

Labor Day Get Away

Great spot to camp away from everyone. Available spots last minute Labor Day weekend 😎. Thr gravel road is a maintained gravel road. Easy for any type of car.

Month of VisitAugust
Truly W.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 1, 2025

Medium mosquitoes, beautiful area

Beautiful forested campsite, the middle site is way better than the other two in terms of grassy area to tent/hang out. Dirt road access is good, could maybe get away with low clearance, but the last hundred feet is on a 2-track so maybe not. We saw turtles nesting in the mid-part of the 2-track so watch out for them in the evenings. Medium amounts of mosquitoes.

Site2
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Big Rice Lake by Truly W., July 1, 2025
  • Review photo of Big Rice Lake by Truly W., July 1, 2025
  • Review photo of Big Rice Lake by Truly W., July 1, 2025
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Big Rice Lake Rustic Campground?

Big Rice Lake Rustic Campground offers minimal amenities in keeping with its rustic nature. The campground features three campsites, with the middle site providing the best grassy area for tent camping. There's a boat landing nearby for water access. No electricity, running water, or modern restroom facilities are available. The campground is designed for those seeking a more primitive camping experience in a beautiful forested setting, away from crowds and development.

How do I make reservations for Big Rice Lake Rustic Campground?

Big Rice Lake Rustic Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservation system. Even during peak times like Labor Day weekend, campsites may be available. It's best to arrive early, especially during summer weekends, to secure your preferred site. For the most current reservation information, contact the managing agency or check their official website before planning your trip.

What are the rules and regulations at Big Rice Lake Rustic Campground?

Big Rice Lake Rustic Campground is a primitive camping area with standard forest camping regulations. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, properly store food to avoid attracting wildlife, and fully extinguish campfires. The campground can accommodate small campers (up to 20 feet) as well as tents. Vehicles with moderate clearance are recommended for access, though the main gravel road is generally well-maintained. The last stretch includes a two-track path that may be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. Always check with the managing forest service for any seasonal restrictions or fire bans.

What activities can I do at Big Rice Lake?

Big Rice Lake offers excellent opportunities for water recreation with a convenient boat landing for launching canoes, kayaks, or small boats. The lake is ideal for fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation – visitors have spotted turtles nesting in the area. Surrounding forest areas provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and nature photography. The peaceful, secluded setting makes it perfect for relaxing and disconnecting from busy life, particularly for those who enjoy quieter outdoor activities away from crowds.

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